EPA Community Change Grant Program

The investments made through the CCGP are intended to achieve the following goals:

1) Community-Driven Solutions: Fund projects that address environmental and climate challenges in communities facing disproportionate health, pollution, and environmental impacts.
2) Cross-Sectoral Collaborations: Invest in strong partnerships with entities committed to working with and for communities with environmental and climate justice concerns.
3) Unlock Additional Resources: Facilitate access to more significant resources to advance environmental and climate justice goals from across the federal government and other sources.

Project Duration: 3-year project duration.

• Resources and Approvals: Ensure all necessary resources (land, materials, people) are available or can be obtained quickly. Plan for competitive bidding processes.
• Documentation: Keep detailed records and review the EPA and grant-specific Terms and Conditions attentively. Familiarize yourself with the Grant Regulations outlined in 2 CFR 200 and 1500.
• Staffing: Plan for adequate staffing with individuals who understand federal fund management. Prevent fraud and abuse through clear division of responsibilities.

Technical Assistance and Support

To assist applicants in preparing a Community Change Grant application, Technical Assistance (TA) is available through CBO Financial. Our expertise can guide you through the entire process, ensuring a well-prepared application.

Launched in November 2023, the Community Change Technical Assistance (CCTA) Program provides expert support in project development, engineering services, budget planning, and multilingual material translation. By choosing CBO Financial, you gain access to tailored assistance that addresses your specific needs.

Public TA resources, including a Resource Library with detailed information on the CCG NOFO requirements and application worksheets, are available on the CommunityChangeTA.org website. However, partnering with CBO Financial offers a more personalized approach to navigating these resources effectively.

Additionally, the Office of the Environmental Justice Public Advocate, in collaboration with the Office of Climate and Energy and the Michigan Infrastructure Office (MIO), offers connectivity support. CBO Financial can help you leverage these partnerships for your benefit.

Our comprehensive technical assistance ensures that applicants have the necessary resources and expert guidance to develop strong, competitive proposals. Choose CBO Financial to enhance your application process and increase your chances of success.

Grant Selections and Awards

The EPA has announced the initial selection of more than $325 million in funding for 21 selected applications to help disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges.

These selected applications are the inaugural submissions under the Community Change Grants Program’s rolling application process.

The program will continue to review applications and announce selections on a rolling basis. Grants under the program cannot exceed 3 years in duration, and the program aims to strengthen communities through thoughtful implementation and enable them to overcome longstanding environmental challenges.

This ongoing selection process ensures that a diverse range of projects receive the support they need to make a meaningful impact.

EPA Community Change Grant Program: Overview

The EPA Community Change Grant Program is a vital initiative by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It provides approximately $2 billion in funding for environmental and climate justice activities. This program aims to support grassroots environmental initiatives that tackle the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities across the country.

What is the EPA Community Change Grant Program?

The EPA Community Change Grant Program is aimed at empowering communities through community change grants. These grants fund projects that promote environmental justice and help counter the effects of climate change. The program targets local governments, non-profit organizations, and community groups, making sure resources reach a variety of grassroots efforts.

Who is eligible to apply for an EPA Community Change Grant?

To be eligible for the EPA Community Change Grant Program, applicants can include:

• Non-Profit Organizations: Groups working with disadvantaged communities.
• Local Governments: Municipalities that want to secure funding for environmental projects.
• Community-Based Organizations: Groups involved in grassroots projects.
• Collaborative Groups: Partnerships targeting improved environmental and community health.

Both technical assistance and competitive awards are available, with billions designated to benefit disadvantaged communities.

What types of projects are eligible for funding under the EPA Community Change Grant Program?

The EPA Community Change Grant Program supports a variety of projects focused on environmental and climate justice, such as:

• Local Environmental Projects: Efforts addressing pollution and local environmental issues.
• Community Resilience Programs: Initiatives designed to help communities adapt to climate change.
• Public Health Initiatives: Projects aimed at improving health outcomes for communities impacted by environmental threats.

Organizations like the Center for Environmental Health and the Trust for Public Land are examples of those that could receive these community development grants.

How much funding is available through the EPA Community Change Grant Program?

The EPA Community Change Grant Program represents the largest investment in environmental justice directed to communities in U.S. history, amounting to around $2 billion for various projects. This funding is intended to enhance community resilience and promote pollution prevention initiatives, significantly impacting the field of environmental justice.

What is the application process for the EPA Community Change Grant Program?

To apply for an EPA Community Change Grant, follow these steps:

1. Review Eligibility: Confirm your organization meets the required criteria.
2. Prepare Proposal: Develop a clear project proposal detailing objectives and expected outcomes.
3. Submit Application: Adhere to the EPA grant application process, ensuring all necessary documentation is included.
4. Public Participation: Involve the community to gather input and promote transparency in your project planning.

For more information or assistance with the application process, please contact CBO Financial or visit the official EPA website.

EPA Community Change Grant Program: How to Apply

The EPA Community Change Grant program is designed to support grassroots environmental initiatives that promote sustainability and community engagement. These grants are aimed at helping local organizations tackle environmental challenges effectively. If you’re interested in applying, here’s what you need to know.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the community change grants funding, applicants must:

• Be a nonprofit organization, educational institution, or local government entity.
• Show evidence of community involvement in project planning and proceedings.
• Implement projects that meet the objectives set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Application Process

1. Research: Get to know the goals of the US EPA and what they aim to achieve.
2. Develop a Project Plan: Clearly outline your project's goals, expected results, and methods for involving the community.
3. Budget Preparation: Create a detailed budget that accurately represents the resources your project will need.
4. Gather Required Documentation: Collect all necessary documents to support your application.
5. Submit Application: Make sure to submit your application through the specified online portal before the deadline.

Make sure to check the EPA website for key deadlines, as staying informed is crucial.

How to Write a Successful EPA Community Change Grant Application

Writing a successful EPA Community Change Grant application requires careful thought and attention to detail. Here’s how to increase your chances of success:

Key Components of a Winning Application

• Project Description: Clearly state the issue your project will address within the community.
• Goals and Objectives: Specify clear, measurable outcomes you expect from your project activities.
• Community Engagement: Explain how you will involve community members in carrying out the project.
• Sustainability: Describe how the impact of your project will continue after the grant period ends.

Tips for Effective Grant Writing

• Use simple, clear language.
• Focus on the positive changes your project will make.
• Include examples of past successes in similar initiatives.
• Follow the application format as required by the EPA.

How to Find a Mentor or Technical Assistance Provider

Finding a mentor or technical assistance provider can greatly enhance your chances of receiving community change grants funding. Here are some steps to help you find these valuable resources:

Steps to Identify Support

1. Research Organizations: Look for groups like NRDC that focus on community-focused environmental programs.
2. Networking: Attend local workshops or events to meet experienced grant writers and mentors.
3. Use Online Resources: Websites that specialize in grant support may offer lists of potential mentors or agencies that can assist.

Benefits of Technical Assistance

• Better clarity in writing your grant application.
• Personalized advice related to your community's needs.
• Increased knowledge of the grant application process.

How to Submit an EPA Community Change Grant Application

Submitting your EPA Community Change Grant application correctly is key to getting funded. Follow these steps:

Application Steps

1. Complete the Application Form: Fill out all required fields accurately.
2. Review Documentation: Make sure all required documents are included.
3. Double-Check Submission Guidelines: Ensure your application meets all specifications laid out by the US EPA.
4. Submit Before Deadline: Remember, your application must be in by the deadline to be considered.

Engaging in public discussions about environmental decision-making is also important during this process.

What Happens After You Submit an EPA Community Change Grant Application?

After you have submitted your EPA Community Change Grant application, it’s natural to wonder about the next steps. Here’s an overview of what happens next:

Review Process

• The US EPA will thoroughly review all applications received.
• They may reach out to applicants for additional information or clarification if needed.

Timeline for Notification

• Generally, you can expect to hear back about funding decisions within 90 days after the submission deadline.

Post-Approval Actions

• If you receive funding, follow the provided guidelines for fund distribution and project reporting.
• It’s important to actively engage with your community to maximize the benefits of your funded project.

This structured process helps ensure that projects positively impact local environmental projects funding and advance environmental justice.

EPA Community Change Grant Program: Resources

The EPA Community Change Grant Program is a vital resource for organizations looking to boost sustainability and fairness, particularly in disadvantaged communities. This program, supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) along with partners like the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Trust for Public Land, focuses on grassroots environmental initiatives and community-led projects.

Key Resources Available

• Grant Application Guidance: Here you can find detailed instructions on applying for funding.
• Support from Community Organizations: Access to local groups that can help with project development and execution.
• Research and Tools: A variety of guides and frameworks aimed at strengthening proposals that focus on benefiting disadvantaged communities.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other grantees and stakeholders to share ideas and strategies.

By utilizing these resources, applicants may increase their chances of receiving funding and effectively serving their communities.

Success Stories from Past EPA Community Change Grant Recipients

Many successful projects highlight the effectiveness of the EPA Community Change Grant Program:

• Urban Green Spaces Initiative: A nonprofit organization used the funding to develop green areas in an underserved neighborhood, leading to improved air quality and community health.
• Water Quality Improvement Project: A grassroots organization worked to restore a local river, which enhanced water quality and provided more recreational options for residents.
• Community Education Programs: Local governments organized workshops focused on environmental justice, creating awareness around sustainable practices.

These success stories show how grants can lead to positive changes in disadvantaged communities through grassroots environmental initiatives and community-led efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions about the EPA Community Change Grant Program

1. What is the purpose of the EPA Community Change Grant Program?
   • Its aim is to empower communities to lead environmental change efforts, especially in underserved areas.
2. Who is eligible for these grants?
   • Local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community-based groups can apply for funding.
3. How can I find out about current EPA funding opportunities?
   • Keep an eye on the EPA website for updates, or subscribe to newsletters about community change grants.
4. What role does public participation play in this program?
   • Community involvement is key to ensuring projects meet local needs and priorities.
5. How can I apply for an EPA community change grant?
   • You can find detailed information and application procedures on the EPA's official website.

EPA Community Change Grant Program Contacts

For questions about the EPA Community Change Grant Program, you can reach out to:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): EPA Contact Page
• Local Representatives: Locate your state's EPA office for specific regional support.
• Community Outreach Program: Get in touch with local organizations that understand the EPA grant application process.
• Capacity Building Grants: Look into additional funding opportunities for local capacity building through the EPA.

Connecting with these resources can help streamline your application process and improve the likelihood of project success.

• Stakeholder Involvement: Designed with meaningful community, Tribal, and other stakeholder input.
• Engagement Models: Foster community engagement through effective community-level plans and governance strategies.

EPA Grant Program Impact and Resources

The Community Change Grants program is expected to bring much-needed funding to disproportionately overburdened communities, improving and saving lives by funding community-driven projects to reduce pollution and improve public health and the environment. The program will strengthen climate resilience in disadvantaged communities overburdened by high levels of pollution and climate risks, creating lasting pathways to more equitable and representative governance.